Yamaha's Latest Concept Car Shakes Up Expectations

Active & Versatile - It has been almost two years since Yamaha first revealed its sports car concept, the 'Sports Ride Concept' at the Tokyo Motor Show 2015. This marked the company's initial step into the world of four-wheel vehicles, a move that left many intrigued. Later in the next two years, as the Tokyo Motor Show returns, Yamaha is once again ready to make waves, demonstrating their continued commitment to the automotive world.

The 2018 Yamaha Cross Hub Concept revealed at Tokyo motor show. (Picture from: Autocar)

In an official announcement, Yamaha revealed a list of concept vehicles to be showcased at the event, with one name standing out: the Yamaha Cross Hub. This new concept car represents a shift from what fans might have expected, especially those anticipating another sports car. Unlike the sleek and sporty design of the Sports Ride Concept, the Yamaha Cross Hub comes in the form of a pick-up truck, built with functionality in mind, rather than pure speed.

Design sketches of the 2018 Yamaha Cross Hub Concept. (Picture from: Yamaha)

The Yamaha Cross Hub brings with it a unique surprise. While many were expecting another sleek sports car, Yamaha opted for a more versatile vehicle designed to transport not just people, but also motorcycles. This pick-up truck is built to cater to Yamaha enthusiasts who live an active, urban lifestyle, seamlessly blending the thrill of motorcycle riding with the convenience of a four-wheeled vehicle.

Right side view of the 2018 Yamaha Cross Hub Concept. (Picture from: Autocar)

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Cross Hub is its ability to seat four adults despite its compact size. This is achieved through an innovative seating arrangement called the Diamond Seat Layout, which places the driver in the center, similar to how one might ride a motorcycle, with three passengers seated behind. This unusual configuration, combined with the adoption of suicide doors, gives the vehicle a distinct look and feel that sets it apart from traditional pick-up trucks.

Left side view of the 2018 Yamaha Cross Hub Concept. (Picture from: Carvaganza)

The Yamaha Cross Hub is roughly the size of a Honda CR-V, which adds to its practicality. Its rear cargo area is spacious enough to carry two motorcycles, reinforcing the company's connection to its motorcycle roots. Yamaha has long been a dominant player in the motorcycle industry, and this concept vehicle clearly reflects their desire to stay close to that legacy, even as they explore the world of four-wheeled vehicles.
 

Yamaha’s bold step into the pick-up truck market may come as a surprise to some, but it signals their willingness to innovate and cater to the needs of their loyal customer base. By designing a vehicle that can transport both people and motorcycles, Yamaha has found a way to integrate their automotive and motorcycle worlds in a single, practical package.

Interior view of the 2018 Yamaha Cross Hub Concept. (Picture from: Carvaganza)

The return of Yamaha to the Tokyo Motor Show with such a unique concept highlights the brand’s evolution. Instead of focusing solely on sports cars, Yamaha has expanded its vision to encompass a broader range of vehicles that speak to their customers’ active and diverse lifestyles. This ability to adapt and innovate shows that Yamaha is not just about speed, but also about enhancing the overall experience for its fans.

Rear side view of the 2018 Yamaha Cross Hub Concept. (Picture from: Autocar)

As Yamaha continues to explore the four-wheel market, it's clear that they are not simply trying to replicate what others have done. Instead, they are finding their own path, blending their expertise in motorcycles with new, creative concepts in the world of cars. The Yamaha Cross Hub stands as a testament to this forward-thinking approach, offering something truly different for fans of the brand.

This latest offering from Yamaha reminds us that innovation is not just about pushing boundaries but also about understanding the needs of your audience. With the Cross Hub, Yamaha has created a vehicle that speaks to the passions of its customers, blending practicality with a love for motorcycles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | YAMAHA | AUTOCAR ]

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